Introduction

Compassion is a central theme in the Bible, reflecting God's character and His expectations for His followers. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and teachings that illustrate the importance of compassion in the life of a believer. This entry explores the biblical understanding of compassion, its divine origin, and its practical application as demonstrated through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and other biblical figures.

Divine Compassion

The Bible reveals God as the ultimate source of compassion. In Exodus 34:6, God describes Himself to Moses as "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion and truth." This self-revelation underscores the intrinsic nature of compassion within God's character. His compassion is further demonstrated in His dealings with Israel, as seen in Isaiah 49:13: "Sing for joy, O heavens, and rejoice, O earth; break forth into song, O mountains! For the LORD has comforted His people, and He will have compassion on His afflicted ones."

Compassion in the Old Testament

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of God's compassion towards His people. In the book of Psalms, David frequently appeals to God's compassionate nature, as in Psalm 103:13: "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him." The prophets also highlight God's compassion, urging Israel to return to Him and receive His mercy (Joel 2:13).

The Law given to Israel includes commands that reflect God's compassionate heart, such as caring for the poor, the widow, and the orphan (Deuteronomy 10:18). These laws were designed to cultivate a community that mirrors God's compassion.

Jesus Christ: The Embodiment of Compassion

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ exemplifies divine compassion. His ministry is marked by acts of healing, teaching, and feeding the multitudes. In Matthew 9:36, it is written, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." Jesus' compassion is not merely an emotional response but is consistently followed by action.

The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is a profound teaching on compassion. Jesus uses this account to illustrate that true compassion transcends ethnic and social boundaries, calling His followers to love their neighbors as themselves.

Apostolic Teachings on Compassion

The apostles continue the theme of compassion in their teachings. The Apostle Paul, in Colossians 3:12, instructs believers: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with hearts of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience." This exhortation emphasizes that compassion is an essential virtue for those who are in Christ.

James, the brother of Jesus, also stresses the importance of compassion in practical terms. In James 1:27, he writes, "Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world."

Practical Application

The biblical lesson on compassion calls believers to reflect God's character in their daily lives. This involves not only feeling empathy for others but also taking tangible steps to alleviate suffering and meet the needs of those around them. The church is called to be a community where compassion is actively practiced, serving as a witness to the world of God's love and mercy.

In summary, compassion is a divine attribute that God desires to see reflected in His people. Through the life and teachings of Jesus, as well as the instructions of the apostles, believers are encouraged to cultivate a heart of compassion, demonstrating God's love in action.